The Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium Made a Bold First Impression
I’ve shouldered countless firearms in my career, from lightweight upland bird guns to magnum elephant rifles. One thing remains constant: recoil can be a real pain, especially during extended shooting sessions. That’s why I was eager to get my hands on the Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium, hoping for a significant improvement in comfort.
I was seeking a recoil pad that could effectively mitigate felt recoil without significantly altering the length of pull or aesthetics of my favorite hunting shotgun. Countless hours spent patterning loads and practicing for dove season had left my shoulder bruised and weary. The Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium promised relief, and I was ready to see if it delivered.
Unboxing the pad revealed a classic, well-made product. The stippled face immediately suggested a solid, non-slip surface. The material felt dense yet pliable, a promising combination for recoil absorption. Compared to a rock-hard factory pad and a gel-filled aftermarket option I’d tried, this Pachmayr seemed to strike the right balance.
I ultimately chose the Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium over a Limbsaver pad and a Kick-Eez pad because of Pachmayr’s reputation for quality and the classic design that wouldn’t look out of place on my older shotgun. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping this pad would offer real-world comfort and recoil reduction without sacrificing the gun’s original character. The price point of $24.99 also played a role, making it an affordable experiment.
My initial impression was one of understated quality. The Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium isn’t flashy, but it exudes a sense of purpose and reliability. I was excited to see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium on my 12-gauge Browning Auto-5, a notoriously stout kicker, and headed to the range. My goal was to run a couple of boxes of heavy dove loads through it.
The weather was typical for late summer: hot and humid. The stippled face of the pad proved invaluable, preventing slippage against my sweaty shirt. It was immediately noticeable that the Pachmayr pad absorbed recoil more effectively than the factory pad. After the first 25 rounds, my shoulder was still comfortable, a stark contrast to previous experiences with the original pad.
The only initial issue was the slight stickiness of the pad against my clothing during mounting. A little adjustment to my technique solved the problem.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including a weekend dove hunt, the Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or tearing, even after being exposed to sun, sweat, and light rain.
The pad remains pliable and effective at absorbing recoil. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. Compared to the gel-filled pad I tried previously, which quickly deteriorated and became sticky, the Pachmayr has proven to be far more durable and reliable. It has definitely outperformed my expectations, offering a noticeable improvement in shooting comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium
Specifications
- The Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium is available in Black or Brown, with a WhitelineT or Black base.
- It comes in Small, Medium, and Large sizes to fit various firearms. This ensures a proper fit and optimal recoil absorption.
- It is a Premium Field Pad designed for Shotgun or Rifle use. This pad offers versatility for different firearm types.
- The pad features a Stippled face for non-slip performance. This is crucial for maintaining a consistent mount, even in adverse conditions.
- It has a Field-style face for quick mounting. This design allows for faster target acquisition and follow-up shots.
These specifications combine to create a recoil pad that is both effective and practical for field use.
Performance & Functionality
The Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium performs its primary function – recoil reduction – exceptionally well. Felt recoil is noticeably reduced, allowing for longer shooting sessions with less fatigue.
The stippled face provides a secure grip against the shoulder, preventing slippage during recoil. The pad’s softness offers collarbone comfort, especially appreciated when wearing lighter clothing. One minor weakness is that installation may require some gunsmithing skills or professional assistance for a perfect fit. However, the benefits far outweigh this minor inconvenience.
It meets and even exceeds expectations for a recoil pad in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium features a classic, functional design. The materials used are durable and comfortable against the shoulder.
The weight is negligible, not affecting the overall balance of the firearm. There’s no real learning curve. The pad is a straightforward replacement for the factory pad.
Durability & Maintenance
The Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium is built to last. The rubber compound is resistant to cracking and tearing.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it can be further customized with grinding to achieve a perfect fit to the stock dimensions.
It’s compatible with various stock shapes and sizes within its specified range (Medium). No additional accessories are really needed, but a good gunsmith can ensure perfect blending.
Pros and Cons of Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium
Pros
- Effective recoil reduction: Noticeably reduces felt recoil, allowing for longer shooting sessions.
- Classic design: Maintains the traditional look of the firearm.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand years of use in the field.
- Non-slip stippled face: Ensures a secure and consistent shoulder mount.
- Affordable price: Provides excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Installation may require gunsmithing skills.
- Limited color options.
Who Should Buy Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium?
The Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who experiences discomfort from recoil. It’s an excellent upgrade for those seeking a more comfortable shooting experience without significantly altering their firearm’s aesthetics.
Those who prioritize a very specific color or a super-soft gel feel might explore other options. A professional gunsmith installation is a must for those not comfortable with fitting and grinding.
Conclusion on Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium
The Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium is a well-made, effective, and affordable recoil pad. It delivers on its promise of reduced felt recoil and improved shooting comfort.
The price of $24.99 is more than justified given the quality and performance.
I would absolutely recommend the Pachmayr Deluxe Recoil Pad – Medium to anyone looking to tame the kick of their shotgun or rifle. Upgrade your shooting experience today!